Dear Ice Hockey,

A couple days ago I was able to get back out on the ice and end my yearlong hockey-less drought. That is when I realized just how much I miss playing hockey. Sure, I am not completely shunned from the hockey world as I follow the NHL almost religiously (Let’s go, Devils!), but nothing beats lacing up the skates with your buddies. I miss the exhilaration of competing and the elation that comes after winning a big game. But what I miss the most is the little things. I miss the pain in my fingers from lacing up the skates. I miss chirping the refs when they make a bad call. I miss getting reprimanded by my coaches. I cannot quantify the things I would do to hear one of my coaches say “Come on Handles, get your head out of your ass!” just one more time. I miss the mockery by my teammates, the tape ball fights in the locker room, the team dinners, the disgusting smell of my car with my hockey bag in it, and the agony of defeat. I miss the blisters on my feet, the sweat on my lips, the wind in my face, and that first stride you take on a fresh sheet of ice. Nothing compares to long car rides, the makeshift meals, and the distinct smell of the numerous rinks around the country.

So, ice hockey, now that we are embarking on different paths I just want to say thanks.The memories and the life lessons that I have obtained from playing hockey are incomparable to anything I have done in my life thus far. I was raised in part by ice hockey, as I have been playing since Kindergarten. I can attribute the man I have become today to obviously my parents, but also to the game which made my five-year-old heart full and my five-year-old eyes wide. As I move on with my life, my 19-year-old heart is full of appreciation for the best game in the world. I am not sad, as I view my nostalgia is more serendipitous than anything else.

To those who still have the privilege of playing hockey regularly, my advice to you is to savor it. Enjoy every moment of it on behalf of those cannot. Don’t be afraid to be that cocky kid that all of us hockey players are. Celebrate your highlight reel goals, show off to the girls in the stands, get yelled at by your coach, sport your countless articles of hockey paraphernalia, and simply love the game without bounds. Also, do not forget to give thanks to those who introduced you to the game, bought your hockey equipment, and drove endless hours to tournaments, practices, and games.

Warmly,

Ben